The Chess Valley Walk

Rickmansworth to Chesham

Route Overview

This gorgeous walk follows the River Chess from Rickmansworth to Chesham. The Chess is a chalk stream, a globally rare habitat featuring crystal-clear waters supporting watercress beds, wild brown trout, and water voles. The trail winds through peaceful meadows, woodlands, and historic villages like Sarratt, before ending in the historic town of Chesham.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take the Victoria line to Oxford Circus/Baker Street, then board the Metropolitan Line or Chiltern Railways to Rickmansworth. (Station: Rickmansworth Station (Metropolitan Line / Chiltern Railways), duration: 45 mins from London Victoria (via Marylebone or Baker St)).

By Bus: Take Green Line / Arriva 724 or Carousel 102 connecting from Uxbridge or Heathrow to Rickmansworth Station. (1h 20m - 1h 40m from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Rickmansworth Station Car Park (WD3 1QY). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 50m - 1h 15m from London Victoria (22.8 miles via A40 Westway & M25 (J18)). From London Victoria, take A40 Westway out of London past Northolt, merge onto M25 north to J18, and follow A404 into Rickmansworth.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the The Chess Valley Walk trail:

• ☕ The Cock Inn, Sarratt: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ Chesham Coffee House: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to The Chess Valley Walk from London?

Take the Victoria line to Oxford Circus/Baker Street, then board the Metropolitan Line or Chiltern Railways to Rickmansworth. (Station: Rickmansworth Station (Metropolitan Line / Chiltern Railways), duration: 45 mins from London Victoria (via Marylebone or Baker St)).

Where is the closest car park for The Chess Valley Walk?

Nearest car park is Rickmansworth Station Car Park (WD3 1QY). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 50m - 1h 15m from London Victoria (22.8 miles via A40 Westway & M25 (J18)). From London Victoria, take A40 Westway out of London past Northolt, merge onto M25 north to J18, and follow A404 into Rickmansworth.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

The Chess Valley Walk covers 16 km (10 miles) with an estimated duration of 4.5 hours, graded as Easy. Starts at Rickmansworth Station and finishes at Chesham Station.